Avondale Memorial Reserve (2040 Great North Road)

In November 1916, around 100 men from the Avondale district were in active service. By the war’s end, at least 200 men from the district had actively taken part in the war. Local schools, residents, and businesses supported the war effort in various ways. Avondale School regularly came top of the list of schools of those donating to the Dominion Gift Scheme of the Auckland Women’s Patriotic League.

In October 1917, proceeds from a patriotic ball went towards the establishment of a Soldier’s Club building, the early beginnings of the local Returned Servicemen’s Association. The Avondale reserve was gifted to Auckland City Council by the Avondale Presbyterian Church as a war memorial area in 1948. A memorial for both World Wars was unveiled here in 1951. In the 1990s, plaques were added recognising New Zealand's involvement in the South African War (1899), Armistice Day (11 November 1918), VE Day (9 May 1945), and VJ Day (15 August 1945). Anzac Day services are held on the reserve each year.

Cross Great North Road at the protected island and then turn left along Great North Road.